Wasn't aware that anyone started making the front seals out of Teflon????? The front seals in my complete gasket set from Trick flow were not teflon either. The only thing I was aware of that is available by special order made of Teflon is the valves seals.

I look at it this way, if the seal is there to prevent oil from coming out, what possible problem could result if you put a little on the shaft first? It will definatetly help in preventing the inner lip from being turned around. I personally like to pack the inner space between the 2 lips with GP grease.

BTW the GM shop manual suggests using a sleeve tool on the water pump drive shaft when pushing the front cover back on. Must be because it is stepped up and the others are not.

The GM shop manual does not say to lube nor does it say not to, when installing the front cover. FWIW, It does say to lube the rear main seal however.

In the Felpro set I used the only seal that said no lube was the opti seal.

Exactly, dont do it if it specifies not to or it will leak. I know this.

Special thanks for all who helped out!! Especially wickman, shoebox and who ever else suggested water pump shaft seal. It was definitely rolled out, could see the rubber from the outside!! I'm quite sure my engine builder didn't know about how easy it was to mess up. I ight have done the new one the same way if it hadn't been for all ya'lls help! Thanks again! No more oil leak from front of engine!

I replaced my water pump seal yesterday. Even after removing the old seal it still looks good. Not rolled or anything, go figure. I installed it by first sliding it on the water pump coupler and using that to slide it on before using a socket to tap it in.

JD

this is amazing i was having the same issue and after 4 timing chang gasket sets i got it to stop. but i didnt know about the opti seal i but pet on it before i reinstalled it.